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‘Superstar’ volunteers are being recognised for their help transporting residents around their local areas as part of Community Transport Week, which runs from 14 to 18 October. 

Nottinghamshire County Council’s support for community transport car and minibus schemes is funded and supported thanks to the Local Communities Fund Grant and Transport and Travel Services and relies on members of the public to volunteer their own time so that residents can remain independent and get around the county.

Councillor Scott Carlton, Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Health: “The volunteers do a fantastic job of delivering Community Transport to the communities of Nottinghamshire, as it’s a vital service they rely on.

“The service is there for those who cannot use public transport due to their age, disability or where there’s limited access to public transport. 

“It can help them feel more independent and feel better in terms of their mental and physical health as they can access medical appointments, prescriptions or other local amenities.

“So, if you are able to volunteer your free time, think of how much a difference it can make to people’s lives”

When Paddy, who is a volunteer driver for Bassetlaw Action Centre, was asked what he enjoyed and found rewarding about being a volunteer driver, he said: “I have been driving the Bassetlaw Action Centre Community minibus for about 10 years now.

“I enjoy every trip out, whether that's a lunch trip or a destination visit that helps to get a group of people out and about, socialising with others, some of whom have become friends with each other. Many have limited mobility or live where access to public transport is very limited and so the door-to-door minibus trips are a genuine lifeline.

“For me, it’s a joy to see them have a day out knowing that otherwise they would be at home and perhaps not see anyone.”

Harriet, Transport Administrator at Bassetlaw Action Centre, said: “Bassetlaw Community Car Scheme takes Bassetlaw residents to appointments, shopping, and social events for a minimal charge plus a small membership fee. Volunteer drivers use their own cars or our purpose-built wheelchair accessible vehicle.  We also run day trips and lunch trips where our minibus picks up clients from the door.”

Kate, who is a volunteer driver for Ravenshead Community Transport (RCT), said: “I started to drive to 'do my bit' in the community, but now I do it because I enjoy meeting all the passengers and knowing that the village bus is a valuable and essential lifeline for many of our residents.”

David, Chair of Ravenshead Community Transport, said: “Ravenshead Community Transport exists because of its volunteers, without whom it would not be possible to provide any of our services to local communities.  RCT is managed and operated by its volunteers, who give up so much time to drive our minibuses and thereby help people maintain their independence, participate in local community life and overcome disadvantages due to infirmity, disability, age and social isolation.”

Richard, who is a volunteer driver for Newark and Sherwood Community and Voluntary Service (CVS), said: "I have been a volunteer driver for Newark and Sherwood CVS for nearly ten years and have found it very rewarding.

“The passengers are always very appreciative of the service, whether going to hospital, shopping, or a social event. Many of them like to have a good chat on the way, which is always interesting. It is a very worthwhile service."

Willem Lewis-Henderson, Volunteer Coordinator at Newark and Sherwood CVS, said: “Volunteering is at the heart of everything we do at Newark and Sherwood CVS, we would not be able to provide services such as our Door2Door transport scheme without volunteers giving their time and efforts to battle isolation.

“Our brilliant community transport volunteers help to ensure that isolated residents can attend groups, services and medical appointments across our district. Transport and isolation are a huge issue for many vulnerable residents in our communities and thanks to our small number of volunteers we are beginning to mitigate these issues.

“If you think you may be able to give your time as a transport volunteer, please contact transport@nandscvs.org or visit our website https://www.nandscvs.org/our-work/door-to-door-service/.”

Sue, who is a volunteer driver for Rushcliffe CVS, said: “After nearly 17 years I still find driving our passengers both enjoyable and rewarding. They are all so lovely and grateful for what we do.  It's a real pleasure to help them and makes me feel I am doing something worthwhile”

Carole Green, Operations Manager at Rushcliffe CVS, said: “Imagine a community where getting groceries or seeing a doctor becomes a hurdle. That's the reality for many without reliable transport.

“Our volunteer drivers are a lifeline, breaking down isolation and ensuring everyone has a chance to participate. They're the heart of our service, and together, we're building a stronger Rushcliffe and Gedling, one ride at a time.

“Want to be part of the difference? Visit us at www.rushcliffecvs.org.uk or telephone 0115 969 9060.”

If you are thinking about becoming a volunteer, visit our Volunteer drivers webpage

Find out more about Community Transport Week 2024